Summer has arrived and the normal things associated with summer are happening as well. Schools out, its hot, its humid, vacations are happening all around and the fishing has turned to summer mode.

This means that bass, crappie, stripers and the assorted panfish we like to catch are now slowing down. No longer on the bed or schooling in large groups, these species are moving around deeper water without remaining stationary, making them harder to catch.

While this is happening the one bright spot for fishermen wishing to catch the bigun is the ever-feeding catfish.

Reports indicate that bass tournament totals are lower and many anglers are not catching the five fish allowed resulting in small totals.

Crappie have moved into deep channels or old creek beds flooded when local lakes were formed many years ago.

Panfish are now off the bed as well so they are smaller and harder to find than just a short month ago. The hot weather and frequent rain has also contributed to the slowdown in the bite as well.

Looking forward to the near future, we can look for better than average catches in catfish. Summer finds them deep and hungry so fish the main channels near the dams for your best chance. The young man mentioned in my last column for his citation size blue catfish out of Lake Tillery sent me picture of a similar lunker he caught on Badin just a few days ago.

Proof, if needed, that our area lakes are home to some big cats. Also on the near horizon is an increase in schooling of white perch (Waccamaw) that normally occurs shortly after the July 4 holiday.

As cats and Waccamaw are two of my favorite fish to both catch and eat, you will find me and my fishing partner on the lake most every week for the rest of the summer.

Fishin Tip of the Week: This time of year its normal for boating accidents to increase with the larger crowds on the water combined with the consumption of adult beverages.

This summer lets make it a point to be safe and courteous to others while out on the lakes. Fishermen and recreational boaters can co-exist as long as each of us respects the others right to be where they are.

To sum it up, heres a code I try to live by. Not at all original but appropriate. Treat others like you want to be treated.

Thanks and Good Fishin!

Larry Hunter writes a fishing column for The Stanly News & Press. Contact him at fishinstanly@cs.com.

Excerpt from:

Following the Golden Rule will help keep everyone safe while out enjoying the lakes this summer - Stanly News & Press